MEDIA RELEASE

First responder agencies in Sans Souci clearing landslides

Over the course of the night, a major landslide severely impacted three homes in Sans Souci. The body of a man (suspected to be dead) was removed from the debris; final confirmation will be made by the medical officer for the area.

Ten (10) other landslides were reported in the area between Salybia and Sans Souci. As a result, an aerial reconnaissance of the area was done and the ODPM coordinated the response of these first responder agencies: 1^st Engineer Battalion of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and the Disaster Management Unit of the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation which are presently engaged in removing the debris and assisting those that may have been injured.

In a bulletin issued early this morning, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service had advised that an area of disturbed weather was expected to negatively impact conditions on both islands. Although weather conditions are improving at this time, we advise persons in typically landslide prone / hilly areas to exercise extreme caution at this time.

We reiterate the following:-

• As the Hurricane Season ends, heavy thundershowers are likely;
• Be aware of any sudden land movements;
• Do not walk or drive through flood waters. Stay inside until water levels have subsided;
• Remove all valuables out of flood waters as soon as possible;
• Ensure that any persons in wheelchairs are above water level;
• Be cautious when driving on wet roads, along hillsides or in landslide prone areas.

We urge citizens that have been affected by flooding to contact their municipal corporation or the ODPM at 800 6376.